Thursday, 13 August 2026

Eight months after launch, the 500 million rand Spaza Shop Support Fund had only 83 million rand approved and 57 million rand paid out, with fewer than 1,400 of 5,000 applications approved.

The fund was described as a non-cash package: 40,000 rand for stock, 50,000 rand for infrastructure and 10,000 rand for skills training, with inspections and compliance checks before payment.

Radiologist Aubakwe Sekwe described building a fully digital imaging practice in Midrand, adding MRI and other services, while stressing that every scan represents a nervous patient, not just routine work.

Womandla Foundation head Sam Como said the organisation pushes girls and women into STEAM through mentorship, digital-skills training and awards, aiming for real decision-making power rather than token representation.

Banyana Banyana beat Nigeria 2-1 to reach the inter-confederation playoffs for the Women's World Cup, with Hlatshwayo's goal and a late Nigeria penalty making it tense at the end.